A Hackney-based national charity has raised concerns about over-the-counter DNA paternity tests as they went on sale today in a local chain pharmacy.

Clockwork Pharmacy in Mare Street is the first retailer in the UK to sell DNA paternity test kits over the counter to the general public.

The £30 test kits can be purchased over the counter. They contain swabs to be used on the inside of the cheek. Once samples are taken they must be accompanied by a signed statement from an authorised adult before being sent away to a laboratory for testing. The laboratory processing of the DNA samples costs a further £119.

International Biosciences offer a wide range of DNA testing services, including paternity, siblingship and other relationship tests as well as DNA tests for immigration purposes, child custody cases and even DNA ancestry research. IBDNA benefit from an award–winning Molecular Biologist as one of their directors allowing them to remain at the forefront of international genetic research.

IBDNA also provide a comprehensive website, www.ibdna.com.my, detailing every aspect of the DNA testing process, showing everything from the differences between home DNA testing and legal DNA tests, to consent issues and understanding the final results report.